XOS A Cry for Help (2160x1023)
Free
XOS: A Cry for Help (1984) © Swinburne Institute of Technology Film & Television School
Drag Week

ACMI presents

XOS: A Cry for Help

Alan Woodruff | Australia | 1984 | Unclassified (15+)
Book Tickets

When

Fri 17 Apr 2026

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A rarely screened Australian drag comedy about two siblings fighting over their recently departed grandmother's final wishes.

Famous drag queen Holly and her scheming sister Beryl (both played by Doug Lucas) battle over the wishes of their recently deceased grandmother, who wants to be buried with her canine companion, Dingo. Defying all health codes and decorum, Holly and her long-suffering manservant hatch a plan to fulfil her grandmother's wishes, while Beryl plots a much darker fate for her deluded sister.

Curator's note
Alan Woodruff's short film is a droll drag curio that gives its lead actor a wonderful showcase to play up and act out in two roles, no less. Referencing the likes of Sunset Boulevard, Prisoner and larger-than-life romance novelist Barbara Cartland, XOS: A Cry for Help is an unexpected camp delight.

Format: 16mm
Language: English
Source: ACMI Collection
Courtesy: Swinburne University of Technology
Runtime: 21 mins

Event duration

21 mins

Rating

Unclassified (15+)

Contains coarse language and mature themes.

Tickets

This event is free to attend.

Tickets are available to book at a maximum of 4 per booking.

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Where

Cinemas, Level 2
ACMI, Fed Square

Plan your visit

Drag Week

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